AJT Opens to Public Performances in 2023
Contributed by Laini Dreas and Jason Herr
Beginning with school performances in November 2022, Alaska Junior Theater has already brought two fantastic shows to Anchorage audiences. In past months, local students filled out the PAC's Atwood Concert Hall for Virginia Rep's 'Have You Filled a Bucket Today? - The Musical!' and master storyteller David Gonzalez in 'Cuentos: Tales from the Latinx World'.
Performances continue in the new year with opportunities for the entire family to attend. “I have truly enjoyed seeing the adults’ faces light up with joy as they have experienced a live performance with 1,000 to 2,000 students in the audience,” said Executive Director Lainie Dreas. “Everyone in the theater is transformed by our amazing performers and the power of seeing these shows in-person. They can’t wait for the next show!”
Public performances in 2023 will include:
The Velveteen Rabbit: PUBLIC SHOW | Saturday, February 4, 2023, at 2:00 PM
(Great for ages 5+)
A young boy’s love and a little nursery magic bring this classic bedtime story to life before your eyes. Watch the velveteen rabbit join his boy on exciting imaginary adventures, from deep caves to the wide-open sea, building an unbreakable bond. Together, they learn the true meaning of friendship.
Based on one of America’s favorite storybooks written by Margery Williams, The Velveteen Rabbit is an imaginative performance designed to enhance the theater experience and increase literacy in the arts. This charming adaptation is performed by one of Anchorage’s favorite touring companies for youth and family audiences: Pushcart Players.
Lightwire Theater's The Ugly Duckling PUBLIC SHOW | Saturday, April 22, 2023, at 2:00 PM (Great for ages 5+)
Dazzling Visuals Bring Well-loved Tale to Life! Lightwire Theater’s innovative electroluminescent puppetry brings these classic tales into a new and brilliant light! No words are used in this dazzling, fast-paced production all ages will enjoy. See The Ugly Duckling come to life through masterful puppetry, cutting-edge technology, moving sculpture and dance. “The Ugly Duckling” is a fairy tale with the moral lesson for people to accept themselves for who they truly are and raises questions about bullying and discrimination. Poignant choreography and creative use of music, ranging from classical to jazz and pop, create an unforgettable theatrical experience.
AJT’s matinee performances have storytelling in the lobby one hour before show time and a milk and cookie reception with the artists after the show.
Single ticket purchases and subscription information are available at www.CenterTix.com or by calling (907) 263-2787.
Additionally, season ticket order forms and event information are available at www.akjt.org.
In addition to attending public shows, patrons can support AJT by attending the annual AJT Benefit performance in March. The reception will provide a variety of amenities, including a performance by Collision of Rhythm.
Rhythm of the Night Benefit Performance
BENEFIT PERFORMANCE | Saturday, March 25, 2023, at 5:30 PM
Festivities will include a live auction, a champagne reception, heavy hors d’oeuvres, dessert, an online silent auction and a live performance in the Atwood Concert Hall. Tickets are $65 per person (Includes reception, show ticket and a tax-deductible donation to AJT.).
Collision of Rhythm delivers a high-energy performance with a wide range of instruments including drums and percussion, piano, marimba, saxophone and beatboxing - with the unique elements of tap dancing and bounce juggling.
For ticketing and subscription assistance, please contact the CenterTix Box Office online (www.CenterTix.com) or by calling (907) 263 -2787.
Alaska Junior Theater can be contacted at (907) 272-7546.
